As the hot, humid summer months approach, it’s time to switch up your go-to messy bun for something fresh, chic, and practical. While the heat can make styling tricky, these easy-to-recreate updos will keep you looking stylish and cool, even as the temperature rises. From romantic and voluminous to sleek and polished, there’s an updo to suit every occasion and hair type.
1. Romantic Updo
For a feminine and soft vibe, the romantic updo is a beautiful choice. This look features a chic chignon styled high on the scalp with loose, wavy tendrils framing the face for a relaxed, yet elegant finish.
Hairstylist Nina Lee suggests, “Not every updo has to be sleek. You can keep it soft and playful by leaving tendrils out to frame the face.” This style is ideal for those who love a touch of romance and want a hairstyle that exudes effortless charm.
2. Windswept Updo
For a more experimental and playful look, the windswept updo is perfect. Inspired by the feeling of windblown hair after a convertible ride, this style combines texture with a carefree attitude.
While it may appear effortless, creating a windswept updo requires some styling time. Teasing, texturizing spray, and bobby pins are essential to achieve the perfect tousled look. This style is great for those who enjoy a little volume and a touch of drama.
3. Sleek Side Updo
The sleek side updo is the ultimate polished hairstyle for those who want a neat, professional, and chic look. This updated version of the classic slicked-back bun can be worn low, high, or at the middle of the head. It also works beautifully with a side or middle part, depending on your preference.
Nina Lee advises, “This updo can look chic, cool, professional, and edgy, and it’s incredibly versatile for warm weather.” To enhance the sleekness, Lee recommends applying a hair mask to the ends for extra moisture, especially when wearing your hair pulled back for extended periods.
4. Piecey Updo
A nod to the Y2K era, the piecey updo is making a comeback in 2025, and it’s perfect for those who loved the early 2000s millennial trends. This style features a sleek bun with poker-straight tendrils left out around the face for that signature “piecey” look. It’s incredibly simple to create and gives off a cool, edgy vibe.
For an authentic piecey updo, style your hair into a sleek bun and leave your front layers out. Use a straightener to make the tendrils extra smooth and straight, giving the style a sharp, modern feel.
5. Prom-Style Updo
A nod to the glamorous ’90s, the prom-style updo is all about big, voluminous hair with a lifted look. The key to this updo is styling the bun high on the head in a sleek, tight fashion, while keeping the bun itself loose and full. This gives you that iconic “big hair” effect, reminiscent of beauty pageant contestants or Pamela Anderson’s signature look.
Whether for a special occasion or just to make a statement, the prom-style updo is perfect for anyone who loves bold volume and a touch of nostalgia.
Final Tips for Easy Summer Updos
Moisturize: To prevent frizz, make sure your hair is well-moisturized, especially during the summer heat. Use a good leave-in treatment or deep conditioning mask once a week.
Texturizing Spray: For added volume and hold, try a texturizing spray or mousse, which will help create movement and volume without weighing down your hair.
Bobby Pins and Accessories: Keep bobby pins on hand for securing your updo, and don’t hesitate to add a festive touch with decorative pins or clips.
Avoid Heat Damage: When styling your updos, be sure to use a heat protectant to shield your strands from damage.
Conclusion
With these easy-to-recreate updos, you can say goodbye to the messy bun and hello to fresh, stylish summer hairstyles. Whether you’re looking for romance, sleekness, or nostalgia, these trendy updos are perfect for any occasion and will keep you feeling confident and chic all summer long.
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